Who Builds London's Electric Cabs?

London’s iconic black cabs are as synonymous with the city as Big Ben or Buckingham Palace. For generations, these distinctive vehicles have ferried millions of passengers across the capital, a symbol of reliable and accessible transport. However, the streets of London are changing, and with them, the very nature of this beloved institution. The roar of a diesel engine is increasingly being replaced by the quiet hum of an electric motor, raising a pertinent question for many: who exactly is behind the creation of these new, environmentally friendly London electric cabs?

The company responsible for manufacturing London’s electric black cabs is the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC). While the name might be relatively new to some, LEVC is the direct descendant of a long and storied lineage that has built London’s taxis for over a century. This British car manufacturer, based in Ansty, Coventry, is at the forefront of transforming urban mobility, not just in London but across the globe, with its innovative electric taxi, the TX.

A Legacy Reimagined: From LTI to LEVC

To understand LEVC, one must first appreciate its heritage. The roots of London’s black cab manufacturing stretch back to the early 20th century, notably with Carbodies, which later became London Taxis International (LTI). For decades, LTI produced the legendary FX4 ‘Fairway’ and later the TX4, the diesel-powered workhorses that defined the London taxi experience. However, by the early 2010s, LTI faced significant financial challenges, leading to its acquisition by the Chinese multinational automotive company, Geely, in 2013.

Geely’s investment marked a pivotal moment. Recognising the global shift towards electrification and the increasing pressure for cleaner urban air, Geely invested heavily in transforming the traditional taxi manufacturer. This strategic move led to the rebranding of LTI as the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) in 2017. The new name clearly signalled the company's renewed mission: to design and build purpose-built electric vehicles, with the London taxi remaining at its heart. This deep financial backing and vision from Geely allowed LEVC to develop a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Ansty, Coventry, a testament to continued British automotive innovation.

Introducing the LEVC TX: The Electric Black Cab

The flagship product of LEVC is the TX, an advanced electric vehicle specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of taxi operations. Unlike many electric vehicles that are simply passenger cars adapted for commercial use, the TX was engineered from the ground up as a taxi. It embodies the classic silhouette of the London black cab, instantly recognisable, yet beneath its familiar exterior lies cutting-edge technology.

The TX operates on what LEVC calls its ‘eCity technology’. This is a sophisticated range-extended electric powertrain. What does this mean in practical terms? The TX is primarily powered by an electric motor, drawing energy from a large battery pack. This allows for significant zero-emission driving, crucial for navigating London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and helping to improve the city’s air quality. However, for longer journeys or when the battery runs low, a small, efficient petrol engine acts as a generator, recharging the battery and extending the vehicle’s range. This clever design eliminates range anxiety, a common concern with purely battery-electric vehicles, ensuring drivers can complete their shifts without needing frequent, lengthy charging stops.

Key features of the LEVC TX include:

• Zero-Emission Capability: Up to 64 miles (103 km) of pure electric range, allowing for substantial emission-free travel within congested city centres.
• Total Range: A combined range of over 318 miles (512 km) thanks to the range extender, offering flexibility for drivers.
• Accessibility: Maintaining the iconic London taxi’s commitment to accessibility, the TX features a wheelchair ramp, swivel seat, and ample space for up to six passengers, making it fully compliant with London’s strict taxi regulations.
• Modern Amenities: Passengers benefit from USB charging points, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a panoramic glass roof, enhancing the travel experience.
• Driver Comfort: A modern, ergonomic driver’s cockpit with advanced infotainment and navigation systems, designed for long hours on the road.
• Manoeuvrability: Retaining the legendary tight turning circle (25 feet or 7.62 metres) that London taxi drivers rely on to navigate narrow streets and perform precise U-turns.

The Impact of the TX on London and Beyond

The introduction of the LEVC TX has had a transformative effect on London’s transport landscape. The shift towards electric taxis is a cornerstone of the Mayor of London’s strategy to tackle air pollution and achieve net-zero carbon emissions. With thousands of TX models now operating daily, the cumulative impact on air quality, particularly in central London, is significant. The quieter operation of electric vehicles also contributes to reducing noise pollution, making the city a more pleasant place for residents and visitors alike.

For taxi drivers, the TX represents a significant investment but also offers substantial long-term savings. While the upfront cost of an electric taxi is higher than its diesel predecessor, drivers benefit from:

• Fuel Savings: Electricity is generally cheaper per mile than petrol or diesel, especially when charged off-peak.
• Exemption from Charges: The TX is exempt from London’s Congestion Charge and ULEZ charges, saving drivers hundreds or even thousands of pounds annually.
• Reduced Maintenance: Electric powertrains have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, leading to lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifetime.
• Government Grants: Drivers may be eligible for grants and incentives for purchasing low-emission vehicles, further reducing the effective cost.

The success of the TX in London has also paved the way for LEVC to expand its operations globally. The TX is now a common sight in major cities across the UK, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester, and has been exported to international markets such as Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Oslo, and even Tokyo. This global reach underscores the universal appeal of a purpose-built, accessible, and environmentally friendly urban transport solution.

LEVC's Vision for the Future

LEVC's commitment extends beyond just the TX taxi. The company has also introduced the VN5, a purpose-built electric van that shares the same eCity range-extended electric powertrain technology as the TX. This move into the commercial van sector further demonstrates LEVC's ambition to become a leading manufacturer of electric light commercial vehicles, leveraging its expertise in robust, efficient, and accessible designs.

The future for LEVC involves continuous innovation, exploring new battery technologies, charging solutions, and potentially autonomous driving capabilities. The company aims to play a crucial role in the global transition to sustainable urban transport, building on its legacy of quality and reliability while embracing the demands of a cleaner, more connected world. The iconic black cab, now electric, is not just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of London’s adaptability and its commitment to a greener future, thanks to the vision and engineering prowess of LEVC.

Comparative Glance: TX4 (Diesel) vs. TX (Electric)

To truly appreciate the advancements, it's helpful to compare the new electric TX with its diesel predecessor, the TX4:

Frequently Asked Questions About London's Electric Cabs

Here are some common questions about the LEVC TX and London's electric taxi fleet:

Is the LEVC TX a fully electric vehicle?

The LEVC TX uses a range-extended electric powertrain, also known as a plug-in hybrid with a range extender. This means it is primarily driven by an electric motor, with a battery that can be charged from the grid. However, it also features a small petrol engine that acts as a generator, recharging the battery when needed to extend the overall range. This setup allows for significant zero-emission driving while eliminating 'range anxiety' for drivers on longer shifts.

Where are LEVC taxis manufactured?

All LEVC TX taxis are manufactured in the company's state-of-the-art facility in Ansty, Coventry, in the United Kingdom. This purpose-built factory represents a significant investment in British manufacturing and engineering.

What is the typical range of an LEVC TX?

The LEVC TX has a pure electric range of up to 64 miles (103 km). When the petrol range extender is used, the total combined range extends to over 318 miles (512 km), providing ample flexibility for daily taxi operations without frequent stops for charging or refuelling.

How long does it take to charge an LEVC TX?

Charging times can vary depending on the charger type. Using a rapid DC charger (50kW), the battery can be charged to 80% in approximately 25-30 minutes. A standard 7kW AC charger (home or public slow charger) would take several hours for a full charge. Many drivers opt for overnight charging or top-ups during breaks.

Are LEVC TX cabs only used in London?

While the LEVC TX was initially designed with London's unique requirements in mind, its success has led to its adoption in many other cities. You can find LEVC TX cabs operating in major UK cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Manchester, as well as internationally in cities such as Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Oslo, Cairo, and Tokyo, among others.

Are electric taxis more expensive for passengers?

No, the fare structure for electric taxis in London is regulated by Transport for London (TfL) and is the same as for any other licensed black cab. Passengers do not pay a premium for riding in an electric taxi; they simply enjoy the benefits of a quieter, smoother, and more environmentally friendly ride.

What happens when the battery runs out of charge?

If the battery's charge level drops to a certain point, the petrol range extender automatically activates. This engine does not directly power the wheels but generates electricity to recharge the battery, allowing the taxi to continue operating seamlessly without interruption. Drivers can also manually activate the range extender if they anticipate needing extra range.

In conclusion, the iconic London black cab is not just evolving; it is being meticulously reinvented by the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC). Backed by Geely, LEVC has successfully blended the rich heritage of the London taxi with innovative electric powertrain technology, creating the TX. This vehicle is not merely a mode of transport; it represents a significant step towards a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable urban environment. As London continues its journey towards a greener future, the electric black cab, a product of British ingenuity and global investment, will undoubtedly remain a vital and cherished part of its identity.

If you want to read more articles similar to Who Builds London's Electric Cabs?, you can visit the Taxis category.